Return Back or Return? Which One Is Correct

Quick Answer

The correct form is "return" without "back."

"Return" already contains the meaning of "back." Adding "back" is redundant (a pleonasm).

The verb "return" means "to go back" or "to come back." The concept of "back" is inherent in the word, making "return back" redundant.

return = re- (back) + turn (go)

This type of error is called a pleonasm - using more words than necessary to express an idea.

✔Please return the book to the library.

✔She returned home after work.

✔When will you return?

✘Please return back the book to the library.

Incorrect: I need to return back to the office.

Correct: I need to return to the office.

Also correct: I need to go back to the office.

Fix the sentence:

"After the meeting, all participants must return back to their departments."